How Is a Pathogen Destroyed by Phagocytosis?

Phagocytes degrade pathogens through phagocytosis, which involves engulfing the pathogen, killing and digesting it within a phagolysosome, and then excreting undigested matter.

How do phagocytes destroy pathogens?

Phagocytes surround any pathogens in the blood and engulf them. They are attracted to pathogens and bind to them. The phagocytes membrane surrounds the pathogen and enzymes found inside the cell break down the pathogen in order to destroy it.

How is a pathogen destroyed by phagocytosis a level?

Phagocytes can detect antibodies with receptors on their surface, and they bind to the antibodies. The phagocyte will then proceed to turn it's membrane inside out to engulf the foreign body and also the antibodies - which are then trapped inside a phagosome (which is a type of vacuole).

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.